France is a fantastic destination for a family getaway, offering a variety of experiences that cater to all ages. Whether your family enjoys history, nature, adventure, or culture, France has something for everyone. Here are some of the best suggestions for a memorable family vacation:
Things to do in France at a family getaway
1. Disneyland Paris (Île-de-France)
- Ideal for: Families with younger children or Disney fans.
- Why go: Located just outside Paris, Disneyland Paris is a magical experience with themed rides, parades, and character meet-and-greets. The park is divided into two sections: Disneyland Park, which includes the iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle, and Walt Disney Studios Park, where you can experience movie magic.
- Family-friendly Activities:
- Rides and attractions for all ages, from gentle rides for toddlers to thrilling roller coasters for older kids.
- Themed dining experiences and character breakfasts.
- Evening fireworks and parades.
- Tips: Consider staying in one of the Disney hotels for extra convenience, and try to plan your visit during off-peak times to avoid large crowds.
2. Provence (South of France)
- Ideal for: Families who enjoy nature, outdoor activities, and cultural exploration.
- Why go: The lavender fields, picturesque villages, and beautiful landscapes of Provence offer a relaxing yet adventurous vacation. Families can enjoy hiking, cycling, and swimming in the Mediterranean, as well as exploring charming villages and historical sites.
- Family-friendly Activities:
- Explore Gordes, Roussillon, and other hilltop villages.
- Take a boat trip to the Calanques National Park, a stunning coastal area with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and kayaking.
- Visit Pont du Gard, a well-preserved Roman aqueduct.
- Try a family-friendly wine and olive oil tour.
- Tips: Rent a car for easy exploration of the countryside and smaller towns. In the summer, consider visiting early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the heat.
3. Loire Valley (Châteaux de la Loire)
- Ideal for: Families who enjoy history, fairy-tale castles, and outdoor activities.
- Why go: The Loire Valley is home to some of the most beautiful and famous castles in Europe. It’s a region rich in history and natural beauty, offering a blend of cultural experiences and outdoor fun. The area is also known for its cycling paths and vineyards.
- Family-friendly Activities:
- Explore Château de Chambord, Château de Chenonceau, and Château de Villandry—each with its own unique story and beautiful gardens.
- Take a boat trip along the Loire River or rent bikes to explore the surrounding countryside.
- Visit the Château de Cheverny, which inspired the setting for the Tintin comic books.
- Tips: Many of the castles have child-friendly activities and treasure hunts to keep young ones engaged.
4. French Alps (Annecy, Chamonix, and Grenoble)
- Ideal for: Active families who enjoy outdoor sports and adventure.
- Why go: The French Alps are perfect for a family getaway, whether you’re visiting in winter for skiing and snowboarding or in summer for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring charming alpine villages.
- Family-friendly Activities:
- Skiing or snowboarding in resorts like Chamonix or Les Gets (winter).
- Hiking around Lac d’Annecy, one of the cleanest lakes in Europe, or take a cable car to Aiguille du Midi for stunning panoramic views of Mont Blanc (summer).
- Visit Parc Naturel Régional de la Vanoise for family-friendly walks and animal watching.
- Enjoy the Annecy International Animation Film Festival (if traveling in June) for a family-oriented cultural experience.
- Tips: Many ski resorts offer child care, kids’ ski schools, and beginner slopes. In summer, Annecy is known for family-friendly cycling paths around the lake.
5. Côte d’Azur (French Riviera)
- Ideal for: Families who love the beach, luxury, and beautiful seaside towns.
- Why go: The Mediterranean coastline offers stunning beaches, picturesque towns, and plenty of activities for the whole family. You can explore historic sites, enjoy water sports, or just relax by the beach.
- Family-friendly Activities:
- Visit Nice’s Promenade des Anglais for a beach day or rent bikes to explore the waterfront.
- Take a boat trip to Îles de Lérins near Cannes, a peaceful island with great beaches and a historic monastery.
- Explore Monaco, including the Oceanographic Museum and the famous Prince’s Palace.
- Visit the Marineland theme park in Antibes, which features a sea-life park with dolphins and orcas.
- Tips: The beaches can get crowded in peak summer, so try to visit early in the morning or later in the evening for a quieter experience.
6. Normandy
- Ideal for: Families with older children interested in history, culture, and the outdoors.
- Why go: Normandy offers a rich blend of history, beautiful beaches, and medieval towns. It’s a great place for families to learn about World War II history and explore charming villages and natural landscapes.
- Family-friendly Activities:
- Visit the D-Day landing beaches like Omaha Beach, the American Cemetery, and Juno Beach.
- Explore the medieval Mont Saint-Michel, a stunning island abbey with winding streets and spectacular views.
- Discover the charming town of Honfleur, with its beautiful harbor and art galleries.
- Take a family-friendly bike ride along the Seine River or through the Normandy countryside.
- Tips: Normandy is great for road trips, and many sites offer educational programs for kids, especially regarding World War II history.
7. Brittany (Brest, Saint-Malo, and Dinan)
- Ideal for: Families who love history, medieval architecture, and rugged coastline.
- Why go: Brittany is a coastal region with a rich Celtic heritage and stunning landscapes. Its mix of historical sites, medieval towns, and natural beauty offers families a variety of activities and experiences.
- Family-friendly Activities:
- Visit the fortress of Saint-Malo, an old walled city with cobbled streets and beautiful beaches.
- Explore Monts d’Arrée for easy hiking with views over the Armorican Massif.
- Spend a day at the Océanopolis Aquarium in Brest, one of the largest marine science centers in Europe.
- Walk along the Pink Granite Coast, known for its striking coastal rock formations and beaches.
- Tips: Brittany is known for its delicious seafood, and many towns offer kid-friendly activities like boat trips, cycling, and beach games.
8. Bordeaux & Dordogne
- Ideal for: Families who enjoy food, wine (for adults), and exploring picturesque towns.
- Why go: Bordeaux and the Dordogne region are famous for their wine, cuisine, and charming medieval towns. This area offers families a more relaxed and scenic experience, with plenty of outdoor activities.
- Family-friendly Activities:
- Explore the vineyards of Saint-Émilion and take a family-friendly wine tour (with grape juice for kids!).
- Visit the Cité du Vin museum in Bordeaux for an interactive, fun experience about the history of wine.
- Discover Beynac-et-Cazenac, a stunning medieval town with a castle overlooking the Dordogne River.
- Go canoeing on the Dordogne River, or explore the Lascaux caves, famous for their prehistoric cave paintings.
- Tips: Bordeaux is easy to explore by foot, and many attractions in the Dordogne offer family discounts and activities for kids.
9. Corsica
- Ideal for: Families who enjoy hiking, nature, and beach activities.
- Why go: Corsica is an island with breathtaking landscapes, from rugged mountains to sandy beaches. Families can hike, bike, and explore villages, or relax by the Mediterranean.
- Family-friendly Activities:
- Take a boat ride to the Scandola Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site with dramatic cliffs and clear waters.
- Hike in the Restonica Valley or visit the beautiful Gorges of Asco for a family-friendly outdoor adventure.
- Relax on Palombaggia Beach, one of Corsica’s most famous beaches.
- Visit the historic town of Ajaccio, Napoleon’s birthplace, and explore the local markets and museums.
- Tips: Renting a car is highly recommended for getting around Corsica, as the island is large and full of hidden gems.
Final Tips:
- Accommodation: France offers a range of family-friendly accommodations, from charming farmhouses and cottages in the countryside to resorts and hotels with family amenities.
- Language: While many people in tourist areas speak English, it’s always helpful (and appreciated) to know a few basic French phrases.
- Transport: France has an excellent public transportation system, but renting a car can be useful in rural areas or when exploring small towns and villages.
Whether you’re visiting the sun-drenched beaches of the south, the historical sites of Normandy, or the magical castles of the Loire, France offers endless opportunities for families to bond, explore, and create lifelong memories.
by France Rentals
